Applicants must demonstrate a clear scholarly focus on restitution, repatriation, and reparation of cultural heritage, particularly in the context of Africa and African diaspora, and the post-colonial condition. Preference will be given to scholars whose work bridges multiple disciplines or engages diverse methodologies to explore the theme. The research must be original, feasible within the fellowship duration, and impactful for ongoing and future debates around restitution and reparations. Awarded fellows are required to submit a publishable paper or chapter based on their fellowship research as part of the final publication by the end of the fellowship program.
Research Project topics may include, but are not limited to:
- The historical and contemporary debates on cultural restitution and reparation
- Case studies of looted artifacts, human remains, or cultural heritage
- The role of Western institutions (museums, archives, universities, etc.) in perpetuating or addressing colonial legacies
- Neo-nationalist policies and campaigns for repatriation and restitution
- The impact of racial reparations and lessons for cultural restitution.
- Candidates must have a minimum of a master’s degree or Ph.D. in a relevant specialization and/or area of research.
- Candidates must demonstrate how their research aligns with and contributes to the broader objectives of the Open Society-funded project, including the lecture series, residential fellowships, conference, and final publication.
- Fellows are expected to present their work as part of The Africa Institute’s lecture series and participate in the final conference and publication of its proceedings.
